These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

GRADE *

PC-SPES® has been most commonly investigated as a treatment for prostate cancer. Some studies observed that PC-SPES® improved prostate-specificantigen (PSA) levels, bone scans and X-rays, pain scores, and quality of life in prostate cancer patients. A preliminary report suggested that PC-SPES® was more effective than diethylstilbestrol (DES) in the treatment of prostate cancer. However, PC-SPES® was later found to contain DES, along with other undeclared prescription drugs. PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

C

* Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this useB: Good scientific evidence for this useC: Unclear scientific evidence for this useD: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)

Tradition / Theory
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.

PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

Children (under 18 years old)

PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.

Allergies

PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used. Allergy or hypersensitivity to ingredients in PC-SPES® has been reported. Throat swelling and shortness of breath have been reported.

Side Effects and Warnings

Avoid in all patients. PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

Undeclared prescription drug ingredients have been found in samples of PC-SPES®. PC-SPES® may increase the risk of bleeding and may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs, herbs, or supplements using the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system. Allergy or hypersensitivity to ingredients in PC-SPES® has been reported.

PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

PC-SPES® may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants (blood thinners) such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).

PC-SPES® may interfere with the way the body processes certain drugs using the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system. As a result, the levels of these drugs may change in the blood and may cause increased or decreased effects or potentially serious adverse reactions. Patients taking any medication should check the package insert and speak with a qualified healthcare professional, including a pharmacist, about possible interactions.

PC-SPES® may also interact with agents that affect the immune system, agents that may damage the liver, antiandrogens, anticancer agents, anti-inflammatory agents, and estrogens.

Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

PC-SPES® has been recalled from the U.S. market and should not be used.

PC-SPES® may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba, and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.

PC-SPES® may interfere with the way the body processes certain herbs or supplements using the liver's cytochrome P450 enzyme system. As a result, the levels of other herbs or supplements may change in the blood. It may also alter the effects that other herbs or supplements potentially may have on the P450 system.

PC-SPES® may also interact with antiandrogens, anticancer herbs and supplements, anti-inflammatory herbs and supplements, herbs and supplements that affect the immune system, herbs and supplements that may damage the liver, and herbs or supplements believed to have estrogen-like properties.

The information in this monograph is intended for informational purposes only, and is meant to help users better understand health concerns. Information is based on review of scientific research data, historical practice patterns, and clinical experience. This information should not be interpreted as specific medical advice. Users should consult with a qualified healthcare provider for specific questions regarding therapies, diagnosis and/or health conditions, prior to making therapeutic decisions.